Selected rounds of APS will feature a new race format with longer, 35-minute races.

“The 2018 calendar is exciting and is well suited to both the types of cars seen in the Australian Prototype Series, and the drivers that drive them,” said Category Manager Liam Curkpatrick.

“We’re pleased with the mixture of returning great drivers’ circuits like Phillip Island and Sydney Motorsport Park, while the addition of Tailem Bend will make for an incredible place to launch the championship.

“The circuit is fast, flowing and spectacular and will suit the series perfectly. It will be an ideal place to launch and could see Prototype Series cars set early benchmarks for the lap record.”

A number of CN-specification ‘International’ prototypes will join the field in 2018, while there is also expected to be an increase in live streaming as part of the yet to be finalised media package.